HWS has many labs across campus, some of which are equipped with the Ubuntu operating system. Ubuntu is a Linux operating system that shares some similarities with Windows and MacOS. This article explains the basics of operating and using Ubuntu.
The Desktop
The Desktop of Ubuntu is the primary space that you work in. Along the left side is the Dock where you can see and switch between running applications. In the top right is volume control and the power/log off menu. The grid icon in the bottom left opens the application list.
The Dock
The dock contains the icons for applications that you have running, as well as favorite applications that can be pinned there. You can switch between applications by clicking their icons. An orange dot indicates that an application is running, and how many instances of it are running.
Files
At the top of the Dock is the files application.
Files allows you to manage the various folders and files that are stored in your account (also referred to as your home). It is an easy place to browse your files and folders, and includes popular locations such as your Downloads, Documents, and Desktop.
You can Right-Click on files and folders for a menu containing additional operations, such as copying and pasting.
Applications
The Application button in the bottom left opens the list of applications available on the computer.
You can scroll left and right through the applications menu, and then click on the application that you want to open. At the top is a search bar so you can more easily search for an application that you need.
The Power and Logoff Menu
At the top right is the power and Logoff menu. When you are finished using the computer, you can log off to allow someone else to use it. You can also choose to restart the computer.
The Lock option will take you to a log in screen where your username is already entered. You can then enter your password to resume your session. This does not log you off, and does not close your files or applications. The lock option is useful if you need to momentarily leave the computer, but still protect the privacy of your work.
